Wike Regrets Not Backing Obuah’s 2023 Governorship Ambitions, Issues Public Apology

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, has publicly apologized to Felix Obuah, the former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers, for not supporting his gubernatorial bid in the 2023 elections.

The apology was extended during an event organized by Obuah in Omoku, situated in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. Wike expressed regret for endorsing Siminalayi Fubara instead of Obuah, leading to Fubara’s election as governor. The fallout between Wike and Fubara ensued, revolving around the control of the state’s political structure.

Wike, acknowledging his past association with Obuah, stressed the importance of leadership transparency and the courage to admit mistakes. He cited Obuah’s previous support during his tenure as PDP chairman and acknowledged that he should have reciprocated the favor during the 2023 elections.

“Leadership is all about firmness, it’s all about courage, it’s all about transparency. When a leader makes a wrong decision, nothing stops that leader from coming back to say, ‘I am sorry for that decision I took,'” Wike stated.

Highlighting Obuah’s significant contributions and support, Wike expressed his sincere apology to the people of Rivers State, particularly those in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area. He urged them to appeal to Obuah for forgiveness.

Wike concluded by reaffirming his faith in God’s blessings and hinted at the possibility of future opportunities for collaboration. The apology comes in the aftermath of the 2023 elections, where Wike had persuaded PDP aspirants to step down in favor of Fubara’s candidacy.